The struggle for fundamental structural reform of the state to realise the aspirations of the July mass uprising is not yet over, NCP Convener Nahid Islam said on Friday afternoon.
Speaking at an event at the Opposition Leader’s residence on the capital’s Minto Road, he alleged that the government has failed to respect the verdict of the referendum and is attempting to present the July uprising in a partisan manner.
Nahid claimed that the government’s initiatives to celebrate the anniversary of the July mass uprising were marred by historical distortion, politicisation, and a lack of inclusive spirit.
“Just as the Awami League tried to politicise the history of the Liberation War, the current government is similarly trying to politicise history,” he said.
He further alleged that during government programmes across various districts on 5 August, while government-supported individuals were invited, representatives of other political parties were barred from participating in some places, and attacks occurred in certain locations.
Criticising the government’s diplomatic failures, the NCP convener noted that the “fallen autocratic force” currently residing in Delhi was able to hold a press conference. He claimed, “The government should have summoned the Indian High Commission and strongly condemned this.”
Nahid also strongly criticised the constitution reform committee formed by the government, saying, “By forming this constitution reform committee, the government has lost legitimacy.” He argued that the government has lost the public’s trust, which has triggered a constitutional crisis.
Furthermore, he raised allegations regarding the dominance of government-supported forces on university campuses. He said leaders and activists of various student organisations who supported the July mass uprising are being barred from entering campuses and are being subjected to attacks.
“This structure, this political culture will not change unless we make changes at the root,” Nahid warned. “If structural reforms are not carried out, this government will also become autocratic, and they have that tendency within them.”
Addressing the administration, he warned that it would not be possible for the government to run the country unless the demands of the July mass uprising are implemented swiftly.
